Definition
A colorless, flammable liquid used in the manufacture of acetic acid, perfumes, and flavors. It is also an intermediate in the metabolism of alcohol. It has a general narcotic action and also causes irritation of mucous membranes. Large doses may cause death from respiratory paralysis.
Flavouring agent and adjuvant used to impart orange, apple and butter flavours; component of food flavourings added to milk products, baked goods, fruit juices, candy, desserts and soft drinks [DFC] Acetaldehyde occurs naturally in ripe fruit, coffee, and bread, and is produced by plants as part of their normal metabolism. [Wikipedia] A colorless, flammable liquid used in the manufacture of acetic acid, perfumes, and flavors. It is also an intermediate in the metabolism of alcohol. It has a general narcotic action and also causes irritation of mucous membranes. Large doses may cause death from respiratory paralysis. [Pubchem]
Description
Acetaldehyde is a colorless, flammable liquid used in the manufacture of acetic acid, perfumes, and flavors. In the chemical industry, acetaldehyde is used as an intermediate in the production of acetic acid, certain esters, and a number of other chemicals. it is also an air pollutant resulting from combustion, such as automotive exhaust and tobacco smoke. It is also an intermediate in the metabolism of alcohol. It has a general narcotic action and also causes irritation of mucous membranes. Large doses may cause death from respiratory paralysis. Small amounts of acetaldehyde are produced naturally through gut microbial fermentation. Acetaldehyde is produced through the action of alcohol dehydrogenase on ethanol and is somewhate more toxic than ethanol. Acetaldehyde is linked to most of the negative clinical effects of alcohol. It has been shown to increase the risk of developing cirrhosis of the liver, multiple forms of cancer, and alcoholism.
Acetaldehyde is Found in These Foods
Top Gene Interactions
Related Pathways
Acetaldehyde Health Effects
General Information
- Metabolism: In the liver, the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase converts acetaldehyde into the harmless compound acetic acid. (L1307)
- Uses/Sources: Acetaldehyde occurs naturally in ripe fruit, coffee, and bread, and is produced by plants as part of their normal metabolism. It is popularly known as a chemical that causes hangovers, as it is produced from the breakdown of ethanol. In the chemical industry, acetaldehyde is used as an intermediate in the production of acetic acid, certain esters, and a number of other chemicals. it is also an air pollutant resulting from combustion, such as automotive exhaust and tobacco smoke. (L1307)
- Health Effects: Acetaldehyde is a probable carcinogen. (L1307)
- Symptoms: Skin contact with acetaldehyde causes irritation. (L1307)
Toxicity
- Carcinogenicity: 2B, possibly carcinogenic to humans. Acetaldehyde associated with consumption of alcoholic beverages is carcinogenic to humans (Group 1). (L135)
- Toxicity: LD50: 661 mg/kg (Oral, Rat) (T14) LD50: 212 mg/kg (Intravenous, Mouse) (T14) LD50: 3540 mg/kg (Dermal, Rabbit) (T14) LD50: 640 mg/kg (Subcutaneous, Rat) (T22) LD50: 96 mg/kg (Intratracheal, Hamster) (T14) LD50: 500 mg/kg (Intraperitoneal, Mouse) (L1325) LC50: 1500 ppm over 4 hours (Inhalation, Mouse) (T14)
Mechanism of Action
| Target Name | Mechanism of Action | References |
|---|---|---|
| Aldehyde dehydrogenase family 3 member B1 |
20699116 |